Filip Benkovic has confirmed he’ll definitely be leaving Celtic in the summer as he aims to prove himself in the Premier League next season.

The Croatian centre-back joined the Hoops last summer on a season-long loan deal from Leicester City and quickly established himself as a fan favourite in Brendan Rodgers’ squad.

Benkovic has produced a string of impressive displays this season, particularly in the Europa League, but it seems Celtic will be forced to find a replacement after the current campaign, with a permanent deal extremely unlikely.

Speaking via the Leicester Mercury, the 21-year-old explained: “Here, I’ve played a lot of high level games, which has helped me a lot.

“But I think I have plenty of room for progress. I need to work, to improve, to play in every part of the game, I just have to continue this kind of rhythm with strong work in training.

“It is important to respect the coaches and team-mates and be honest in training and with everyone around you.

“It’s a formula for growth, a recipe for further progress. I think I’m on the right track.

“I just have to believe in myself, and I definitely believe. I have never lacked self-confidence.

“I want to make another step at the end of the season. I want to show that I can play in the English Premier League.

“But I want to emphasise that I still have to make progress. I can still do a lot of work on my game to be an even more complete player, I just need to work.

“I cannot wait for new challenges, I want more challenges, I set very high goals. I’ll do absolutely everything to reach them.”

As things stand, Celtic will be forced to rebuild most of their defence in the post-season months, with Dedryck Boyata set to leave and Jeremy Toljan also on loan from Borussia Dortmund.

But do you think the Parkhead hierarchy will allow Rodgers the significant funds needed to replace such influential players?